Black Cherry
Prunus serotina • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight with a fine, even, satiny texture. Features small dark pith flecks (gum pockets) which are visible in the sample as small dark streaks/spots.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light pinkish brown when freshly cut, darkening to a medium reddish brown with time and light exposure. High luster and slight chatoyance. The sample shows a warm amber patina characteristic of aged cherry.
Hardness Rating
950 lbf (Medium)
Durability Rating
Durable to very durable regarding heartwood decay resistance; sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Fine furniture, cabinetry, flooring, veneer, turned objects, small specialty wood items, and musical instruments.
Geographic Origin
Eastern North America
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade and width.
Wood Age Estimate
The visible oxidation (warm amber/orange-red hue) and dark gum deposits suggest the piece is at least 5 to 10 years old, with many years of light exposure to reach this depth of color.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Generally very sustainable and widely available.
Workability
Excellent. Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It planes, glues, and finishes well. The main challenge is potential burning when using high-speed machine bits (like routers).
Notable Features
Features a distinctive, mild, sweet scent when being worked. Known for its 'gum spots' or 'pith flecks' which are small black streaks caused by mineral deposits or gum pockets.
Finish Recommendations
Wiping varnish, shellac, or oil finishes (like Danish oil) are highly recommended to enhance its natural chatoyance and color depth. It takes stain well, though it can go 'blotchy' if a sealer isn't used.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of the warm reddish-brown patina, the specific size and distribution of pith flecks (dark spots), and the fine, closed grain is diagnostic of Prunus serotina.